New Deputy UK Commissioners for Programme

We are pleased to announce two new Deputy UK Commissioners for Programme.

Keith Jennings has been appointed as Deputy UK Commissioner for Programme (14-25) and Ben Scholes as Deputy UK Commissioner for Programme (Adventure). Graeme Hamilton continues as Deputy Commissioner for Programme with a focus on the 6-14 age range.

Keith’s varied Scouting roles have included working with the Venture Scout and Explorer Scout sections. He has been involved in expeditions to Africa and Eastern Europe and has a keen interest in high quality programme experiences where young people themselves shape the opportunities.

Keith said: 'With Explorer Scouting going from strength to strength, I’m excited about using this success to help drive forward the big changes that are needed in the Scout Network. It’s a really exciting time to be working with the 14-25 age range, particularly as we make Scouting more youth shaped and community focused.'

Ben is returning to Scouting having been a Cub, Scout and Venture Scout. His professional career started in outdoors adventure as an instructor for activity providers working in schools and with young people with challenging behaviour. He has gained a range of qualifications in paddle sports, mountaineering, rock climbing, caving and mountain biking – and he can play the bugle!

Ben said: 'I’m very happy to be taking on this role. I’m passionate about the need for young people, wherever they may be and whatever their circumstances, to experience the thrill and excitement of adventure, delivered safely and with a purpose.'

Craig Turpie, UK Commissioner for Programme, commented: 'I’m delighted with the changes to the Programme Core Team. I’m confident that Keith will make an excellent contribution to our important work in sustaining success with the Explorer Scouts and improving the Scout Network. Similarly, with Ben, he clearly lives adventure in its widest sense and I’m very pleased that he has been attracted back to Scouting to volunteer.

'Graeme will continue to play a central role in the roll-out, promotion and support of our updated programme. We know that young people expect Scouting to offer fun, challenge and adventure and I’m sure that together they will all help to make that a reality.'